RESPECT; THE POWER TO TRANSFORM

 

Respect is a fundamental value that underpins the fabric of human relationships and society as a whole. It involves recognizing and honoring the inherent worth of every individual, regardless of differences in beliefs, social backgrounds, or perspectives.

 

Giving and receiving respect is a two-way journey. While being respected brings happiness, we must not overlook how we reciprocate it to others. Respect is expressed through considerate actions and thoughtful communication. It shapes our personality and serves as a reliable measure of character in our interactions with others.

 

By fostering trust, cooperation, and harmony, respect enables people to work together effectively and peacefully. Whether in personal relationships, professional environments, or broader societal contexts, respect is the foundation for meaningful connections and a more inclusive world.

Today, on my way here, I boarded the metro. It was jam-packed, and I was in some discomfort, still recovering from a recent accident that left me with pain in both my right hand and leg. Standing for a long time was difficult, so I looked around, hoping to find a seat. My search silently conveyed a request—

 

'Could someone offer me their seat?'

 

But everyone around me was busy with their mobiles. After a while, another person, around my age, stepped onto the train and looked around; perhaps he was also looking for his luck. A gentleman stood up and offered him his seat, saying, 'Sir, please, have a seat.' The newcomer politely declined, but the passenger insisted and he took the seat.

 

For some time, I worked overseas.  I lived in a shared accommodation and shared my room with Vishnu from Kerala.  When I visit my hometown, I will book a taxi to the airport and it costs a lot.  But in the case of Vishnu, it's something different.  Many offer him free rides no matter the timing of the flight.  We worked together and shared the same room, i am physically more imposing and use expensive and branded clothes, but still people are comfortable with him.  That day I realized no matter how many suits and ties you wear, may not add utility to you.

 

Has anyone else experienced something like this?

 

Yeah,

I thought so. Any guesses on why this happens?

 

I was puzzled—why were people, especially young, good-looking girls, so drawn to Vishnu? Why did he seem to have all the fun? I had to figure it out, so I decided to keep a close eye on him.

 

The next morning, after waking up, I grabbed my phone, checked for any messages, sent out some good morning texts, and watched a few reels before getting up to freshen up. Meanwhile, Vishnu had already called his mother, asking about his father and sister, and reminded them not to miss their daily medicines. Then, he reached out to a few friends to chat about an upcoming reunion. One of his friend's mothers was in the hospital and needed blood, he quickly called a blood donation group and shared the patient’s details, and within just a couple of calls, he managed to find a donor.

 

But it didn’t stop there. When we got to the office, one of our colleagues was missing. I thought he might be on leave, but Vishnu gave him a call.  It was raining outside, and the roads were flooded. Our colleague was stuck on the main road with no autos in sight. Without missing a beat, Vishnu got up, found a bike, and in two minutes, the colleague was in the office, soaked but thankful.

 

 

Now, let me ask you this—

 

“What do you think the cost of the help?”

 

Usually, an auto ride costs about 50 rupees. So, how much do you think our colleague valued that help? 50 rupees? 100? Or maybe, as the famous Mastercard tagline goes, ‘priceless’?

 

This is where the difference between me and Vishnu lies. As George Bernard Shaw once said, ‘The reasonable man adapts himself to the world; the unreasonable one persists in trying to adapt the world to himself.  Who is reasonable here, you can decide.

 

Guys, you too can shape yourself like Vishnu. There are many simple things you can do in your daily life. These actions not only purify your mind and body but also create a positive atmosphere around you.  More importantly, it creates a positive vibe to the people interacting with you.

 

Today, let's discuss one of these simple things you can imbibe easily —respect. Respect for yourself, and respect for others.

 

So what is respect?  Why is it very important?  

 

Respect is the cohesive element that holds caring and understanding together. It binds us together.  When you start practicing it, even your enemies may soften towards you.

 

Respect is also the lifeline that drives human life. Without mutual respect, civilizations would crumble and through respect, the world becomes a more beautiful and harmonious place.

 

No wars,  no conflicts,  peaceful earth.  Sounds good right?  But it’s the truth.

 

So, let’s take a closer look at what respect is.

 

Respect comes in different forms, and the first one is self-respect—respecting yourself. It means understanding your worth and standing up for yourself rather than waiting for others to do it for you.

 

Another important form of respect is respecting others. This means understanding their feelings and rights, seeing people with kindness, listening to them, and appreciating their achievements and uniqueness, no matter how small it is.

 

Respect for authority is also very important. Like adhering to the roles and responsibilities in the workplace, within the family, or in social gatherings.

 

Respecting authority helps you follow rules, stay calm, promote cooperation, and advance in both your professional and personal life.

 

Respect for nature is another essential form of respect that we should all embrace. It's about valuing and caring for the environment, ensuring that our actions do no harm the nature.  This respect helps protect wildlife, reduce plastic waste, and support sustainable living.

 

We should also know what is religious respect. While we are all human, we are often divided by different castes, classes, or beliefs. It's important to honor this diversity. Appreciate diverse traditions and never become judgemental.

 

Last but not the least is the respect for the time.  It helps you to become punctual and professional.  It improves your efficiency and helps you meet deadlines easily.  It enhances your efficiency, trust, and professionalism.  It allows to lead you a well-balanced life.  

 

 

Finally, let’s recap what you gain by embracing respect in your interactions:

 

Number one; Improved Relationships: Whether personal or professional, respect strengthens your connections with others.

 

Number two: Boosted Self-Confidence: Respecting yourself builds confidence, which helps you tackle new challenges successfully.

 

Number three: Social Harmony: Respect fosters resilience, empathy, compassion, and inclusivity,

 

So dear friends; let’s embrace this valuable quality and strive to be more human. The world is looking at you and me.  Step in with love, respect, and compassion. Together we can change the world.